Skip to content

Legislation to Support Local Chambers Passes

Legislation to Support Local Chambers Passes

Many chambers of commerce were devastated by the pandemic.  However, this did not stop them from providing crucial support to local businesses. The SBAC is thrilled to report that Illinois politicians have provided 5 million dollars to support the recovery of chambers of commerce in Illinois.  The SBAC has been working to procure this funding for the past year to foster the recovery of chambers.

The distribution of these funds will be awarded via a grant through a program established by the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity.  Chambers can receive up to one-sixth of the annual revenue lost between 2019 and 2020.  In the event additional funds remain after eligible chambers receive grants, additional grants can be made to chambers.  This bill will apply to chambers with an annual revenue of up to one million dollars.

Thank you to the chambers of commerce that worked with their legislators on this initiative.  Thank you to the legislators that championed this legislation!  This is a very big deal for the small business community

Insights Archive

SBAC Action Call: Time For Policymakers To Deliver a Small Business Package

By growthzone | November 1, 2021

SBAC Action Call: Time For Policymakers To Deliver a Small Business Package Many small and local businesses closed during the pandemic while others continue fighting to keep their doors open. The small business community has galvanized around a package of policy proposals. These policies will provide crucial support to small businesses and local communities. They…

Take the Community Survey!!

By growthzone | October 27, 2021

Click Here to take the Community Survey! Revitalize Local Businesses and Neighborhoods Thriving commercial corridors support local communities across Chicago and Cook County.  Prior to the pandemic, however, many corridors struggled.  As Chicago emerges from the pandemic and local communities confront a new economic landscape, a strong coalition of stakeholders is needed to advocate for…

Advocating for disadvantaged commercial corridors

By growthzone | October 11, 2021

SBAC President Elliot Richardson discusses a policy that will reduce vacant properties in struggling neighborhood business districts.  Replacing commercial vacancies with small businesses will support local communities. Supporters Fifth Third Bank Saul Ewing Arnstein Lehr Inland Bank Ntiva Daily Herald Tandem HR Interprenet Signature Bank Lexitas Empower Korey Richardson Open One Solutions Freeborn and Peters…

Scroll To Top